Can I Keep?Black drum Regulations in Texas (2026)
Recreational black drum rules in Texas saltwater, as published by the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department. Last checked November 7, 2026.
Size limit
Min Length: 14 inches; Max Length: 30 inches
Bag limit
5
Can I keep it today? Check your harbor & date
Recreational Black drum rules in Texas
- Where
- Statewide
- Size limit
- Min Length: 14 inches; Max Length: 30 inches
- Bag limit
- 5
- Possession
- The possession limit is equal to double the bag limit unless otherwise noted.
- No more than one black drum over 52 inches may be retained per person per day and counts as part of the daily bag limit and possession limit.
Commercial rules
Show 1 commercial rule
- Where
- Statewide
- Size limit
- Minimum Length (inches): 14; Maximum Length (inches): 30
- Bag limit
- Daily Bag Limit: No limit
- Possession
- Possession limit: No limit
- Season
- All fish that are not listed below, Commercially Protected, or are Threatened or Endangered have year-round seasons in Texas waters.
- A Finfish Fisherman’s license is required for taking saltwater fish from the coastal waters of Texas for commercial purposes.
- While fishing in Texas waters a person may not possess more than the daily bag limit.
Quick answers
What is the black drum size limit in Texas?
Min Length: 14 inches; Max Length: 30 inches.
How many black drum can I keep in Texas?
5.
Compare Black drum limits in other states →
More inshore in Texas
- alligator Gar
- Channel and blue catfish, their hybrids and subspecies
- Flathead catfish
- Flounder (all species, their hybrids and subspecies)
- Gafftopsail catfish
- Mullet (all species, their hybrids and subspecies)
- Red drum
- Sheepshead
- Snook
- Spotted seatrout
- Striped bass, its hybrids and subspecies
- Tarpon
- Tripletail
All Texas saltwater fishing regulations →
Source: Texas Parks and Wildlife Department. Most anglers need a Texas saltwater license or registry: get one here.